Mr. Louis R. "Louie" Arcuri

Mr. Louis R. “Louie” Arcuri, age 58, passed away after a courageous battle with MS on Sunday, January 4, 2015 in the comfort of his home surrounded by his devoted family. Born in Utica on September 2, 1956, Louis was the son of Philip F. Arcuri, Sr. and the late Theresa (Valente) Arcuri. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1974. He attended M.V.C.C. and subsequently SUNY Institute of Technology and served an internship with the Syracuse Police Department graduating in 1978 with a degree in Criminal Justice. It was during his schooling at SUNY that he met his longtime friend, Jimmy Casamento. On May 22, 1982 he married the former Donata Colucci with whom he shared 32 years in a relationship so close to each other that they were pretty much inseparable. When Louie became ill, Donata was on a selfless mission to make his life as full as possible. She was his honey and she held his hands to the very end. Louie had thought of continuing his education to become an attorney or a policeman, but his career path led him to a position at Carl’s Drug Store as security personnel. He later held employment at the New York State Teamsters Union Local #182 where he worked for 21 years heading the Security Department at Rutger Park, retiring in 1998. Louie took pride in being a Teamster and lived his life by the principles that the union represented. Louie worked hard for all the things he thought were important in life. He had core values of family and a grounded sense of his faith. He was full of love and laughter and was the life of the party. He was wise and knowledgeable and his family often sought him out for advice. Although not blessed with his own children, he loved his nieces and nephews as his own. He was meticulous almost to a fault, and everything had to be just right. Louie was most proud of being a good provider and most thankful that he always had his loved ones by his side. He treasured holidays, get-togethers, reunions, and Sunday dinners. In his younger years, one of his favorite pastimes was dancing to disco music at The Waterfront. He also played high school and MUNY League baseball until his 30’s, leading him to a grand appreciation and love of the New York Yankees. He had a soft spot for the slots and Black Jack, and his getaways to the Casino were memorable. Louie was also a staunch Chevy and GMC man and the proud owner of several Camero Z28s, a 1978 Red, 1982 Red, and a 1984 Silver; they were all named Rosie and were all pampered and primed to go! Years ago, Louie served as an altar boy at St. Agnes Church where he enjoyed the CYO activities. He was currently a communicant of St. Mark’s Church. Louie is survived by his wife, Donata, who has been devotedly by his side; his loving father, Philip F. Arcuri, Sr.; his sisters and brother-in-law, Linda and Norman Doucette of Winchester, MA, and Phyllis Ross of Lafayette, NY; his brother, Philip F. Arcuri, Jr., of Utica. He will be deeply missed by his father-in-law, Donald P. Colucci, with whom he shared a special bond of love; his in-laws, Philomena and William Gerstner III, and Dana and Christopher Gonzalez; nieces and nephews, Larissa Doucette and fiancé Paul Sullivan, Samantha Doucette, Julie and Ken Clark, Melissa and Ilmas Hogan; P. Blake Arcuri; Giavanna, and Santina Gerstner; Amaris, Christopher, Ariana, and Krislyn Gonzalez; his great-nephew and several great-nieces; his aunts and uncles, Dick Arcuri, Louis Steppello, and Phillipa and Roger Palek; his cousins; and the many special friends who filled his life. He also leaves his true canine companion, Lulu. He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Louis R. and Violet Valente; his paternal grandparents, Joseph and Agata Arcuri; and his mother-in-law, Mary Lou Colucci. While at home, Louie and Donata appreciated the care and support of Connie Buffa who was so compassionate and tender in her care of Louie, and her daughter, Skye Buffa, whose innocence brought laughter to many moments. Thanks also to the Maynard Fire Department for their timely response and compassion; and New York State Trooper Hovey who aided Donata during a difficult time. Visitation will be held Thursday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request please omit floral offerings. Louis’ funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Friday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at St. Mark’s Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Mark Pasik. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery. “Love you… be careful”. (Words Louie always shared in parting)